Urticaria or Hives are basically like rash. The only difference you may notice is – these are a bit raised and cannot go unnoticed. Some people call it hives, wheals, nettle rash or welts. 

Now, you must understand that Urticaria can happen because of multiple reasons. It could be because of too much exposure to something or due to some allergens. In India, around 20% of the population struggles with Urticaria at some point in their lives. To know more about this, go on reading. 

What Are the Common Symptoms of Urticaria? 

Below you’ll find some major urticaria symptoms that you can keep a note of. 

  • If you’re suffering from Urticaria, you will feel extreme itchiness. 
  • The rashes will look swollen. It is more like having raised red bumps on your skin. 
  • These rashes at first look smaller but soon they start to join and end up making a big, large rash. In simple words, they spread on your skin promptly.
  • These rashes can change shape and size as well. 

Now that you’re aware of the symptoms, let’s understand what can cause you this skin problem. 

What Causes Urticaria? 

Here are some major factors that can cause Urticaria. 

  • Allergens: Substances like pollen, pet dander, certain foods, and medications can cause an allergic reaction. Now, these allergies can lead to hives.
  • Infections: Viral or bacterial infections can help stimulate your immune system. Now, it could be anything like common cold, hepatitis and more. 
  • Physical stimuli: External factors like pressure, cold temperatures, heat, sunlight exposure, or even scratching can provoke hives in susceptible individuals.
  • Stress: Emotional stress or anxiety can trigger urticaria due to the release of certain chemicals in the body that affect the skin.
  • Autoimmune disorders: Conditions where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues can manifest as chronic urticaria.
  • Genetics: A family history of hives or related allergic conditions can increase the likelihood of experiencing urticaria.
  • Underlying health issues: Conditions such as thyroid disorders, lupus, or certain cancers may also contribute to the development of hives. 

What Are the Treatments Available for Urticaria? 

Now, let’s find out how to cure urticaria permanently. 

Medical treatments can help cure such skin conditions. There are medications that contain Antihistamines which block the action of histamine. This actually helps in reducing itching and swelling associated with hives. In severe cases or when antihistamines alone are ineffective, corticosteroids may be prescribed to reduce inflammation. In cases of chronic urticaria treatments not responding to other treatments, medications that suppress the immune system may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and prevent flare-ups. 

Must Read: Types Of Eye Infection

Home Remedies for Urticaria

Now, let’s find out Urticaria remedies that you can try at home. 

  • Oatmeal baths: Soaking in a lukewarm bath mixed with colloidal oatmeal can help soothe itching and inflammation associated with urticaria. Oatmeal contains compounds that possess anti-inflammatory properties, providing relief to irritated skin.
  • Cold compress: Use cold compress on the areas where you have got hives. You can use ice packs covered in a cloth as well. This basically helps prohibit blood vessels and reduce swelling. Also, make sure not to apply ice directly on the affected area. 
  • Aloe vera: Aloe vera gel is good for hives as well. The gel has cooling and anti-inflammatory properties. Now, these can help prevent itching and soothe irritated skin. You just have to apply a thin layer of pure aloe vera gel to the affected areas and that’s it. 
  • Baking soda paste: Just Mix baking soda with water and create a paste. Now, apply the paste to the hives. This helps reduce itching and inflammation. It is because baking soda has alkaline properties that help in neutralizing the pH of the skin and provide relief from discomfort.
  • Avoid triggers: Identify and avoid triggers that exacerbate urticaria, such as certain foods, medications, or environmental factors like extreme temperatures or tight clothing. Keeping a diary to track potential triggers can help in pinpointing and avoiding them effectively, reducing the frequency and severity of outbreaks.

Conclusion

Overall, Urticaria is a common skin problem. Although people always overlook the symptoms and end up getting stuck in a severe case. But worry not as now you know the causes and home remedies. Hope this article will help.